Le Quyen’s story: Life-long friendships made over mahjong

Since retiring from her job at a shoe factory in Preston, Le Quyen has found daily connection and comfort at BSL’s Coolibah Centre in Fitzroy.

Born in Vietnam, she arrived in Australia in her mid‑twenties with her parents and siblings and has lived in the Fitzroy public housing apartments ever since.

The Coolibah Centre has become an important part of her life.

I just love coming here. I have made so many friends. We love to play mahjong. I have also created a garden bed out the back where I grow Vietnamese mint, spring onion and some Australian vegetables.

She tends to the garden after hours and on weekends, taking pride in the herbs she uses to make dumplings for other members each Wednesday.
   

   

It just makes me so happy. I use these herbs to make dumplings on Wednesdays for all the other Coolibah members. Everyone is so friendly. If I need help to translate documents, staff are there to help.

The Coolibah Centre, now marking its 80th year, was Victoria’s first senior citizens’ service. Today it remains a vital social hub where older people gather to share meals, chat and take part in daily activities. Some members travel long distances because of the sense of belonging they find here.
   

For Le Quyen, that sense of community is everything. “My friends sometimes come across the road to wake me up and tell me it’s time to go to the Coolibah. I just love coming here"